Solomon Islands
This Melanesian country is best known for its many islands and beaches... and this
natural landscape (pictured) is why most people go. Don't miss out on the unique
Melanesian culture and foods though! Begin Your Journey!

Vanuatu
Picturesque serenity is a good way to describe Vanuatu, but the culture offers much
more, including the inspiration for bungee jumping, which remains a rite of passage
for young men. Explore Vanuatu!

Federated States of Micronesia
This diverse country stretches for thousands of miles and has the diversity to prove
it, including the people from Chuuk, Pohnpei, and Yap among others.
Begin Your Journey!

Samoa
Among the most famous of the South Pacific's many countries, Samoa sits in the
heart of Polynesia and has a culture to match. Begin Your Journey!

Relationships, Marriage, & Family Life in New Zealand

Dating in New Zealand may begin at school, through friends,
or in any number of other settings. However, it seems relationships tend to progress
during the dating process, which may involve going out to a movie, a restaurant,
a party, or a pub. As relationships progress and become more serious, many kiwis
marry; the average age for marriage tends to be in their late 20s or early 30s.

Weddings in New Zealand usually take place in a church
and the wedding couple does not see each other that day prior to the wedding itself.
Weddings are very similar to church weddings in Australia,
North America, or Europe as
many details are altered, but the ceremony is similar depending on the church and
religion of the couple. Weddings also take place in other settings, such as in a
temple for some people and for many Maori couples it is officiated by a Maori tribal
elder. Most couples also exchange rings with metal being the ring of choice for
most couples, but the Maori tend to prefer bone or stone rings. Many weddings also
include a couple Maori traditions, no matter the couple's ethnicity, including
a ceremonial welcome called a powhiri and an "infinity loop,"
which is placed around the necks of the bride and groom.

Family life in New Zealand reflects life in many other
western countries as traditional male and female roles in the family are slowly
disappearing and the birth rate has fallen in recent decades to about two children
per woman. Today both men and women in New Zealand work in about even numbers and
which parent, if either, stays home with their children is up to the couple.